Exploring Life & Business with Elaina Verhoff of Elaina V. Public Relations

Today we’d like to introduce you to Elaina Verhoff

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
After graduating from the University of Arizona, I followed in the footsteps of my father and grandfather and embarked on a career in public relations. I went on to earn an MBA and a career in corporate marketing with Ford Motor Company. I took some time off when my kids were small, and started an award-winning parenting blog and began writing for top digital publications like Houzz and SheKnows Media. As my kids grew and I had more time available, I found my way back to public relations, first at an agency, then taking the leap and starting my own business, Elaina V. Public Relations, in February 2020.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Having a global pandemic hit one month into my new venture was certainly not expected! Somehow the universe has a way of working things out. While business was slow and steady in year one, I had the time and space to be with my quarantining kids, do an amazing job for the clients I did have, and eventually earn a lot of referral business as a result of being a strong partner helping my clients navigate the Covid years.

I also had to learn that I don’t have to say yes to every opportunity, because they’re not always a fit, and I don’t want to stretch myself so thin that I’m unable to turn off my spinning brain or enjoy life outside of work.

Running a business is challenging, but despite all the struggles, I’ve shown myself that I can do it. And that is worth everything.

As you know, we’re big fans of Elaina V. Public Relations. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I run a boutique public relations firm specializing in earned media. I have developed the skills, expertise, and relationships to help my clients build their brand and raise awareness through organic media coverage. My experience as a freelance writer is a big asset for my clients, as I’m able to ghostwrite articles and press releases that get picked up as published articles. And I have close relationships with media contacts, many who have become friends. I work primarily on a monthly retainer basis, but I’ve also learned that I love helping businesses with projects — particularly launching or rebranding a business.

How do you think about happiness?
This is a fantastic question. When it comes to my business, getting results for my clients and being able to share the latest feature, TV clip, or interview request give me joy. On the personal side, spending time with my family, enjoying nature, traveling, and seeing live music are also favorite things to do. I’m currently reading The Artist’s Way and tapping into my creative side – including writing about the journey of becoming an empty-nester!

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.elainavpr.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elainavpr/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elainavpr
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/elainavpr

Image Credits
photo credit: Claudia Johnstone